Youth Programs During COVID-19: How AmeriCorps NCCC Members Offer Support

My name is Luna, and I’m a member of AmeriCorps NCCC, a team-based national service program for young adults. My team of twelve has been serving with the Alaska Afterschool Network, working with Camp Fire Alaska, Trailside Discovery, and The YMCA of Alaska. It’s nearing the end of our two month project and I can’t help but feel overcome with gratitude for having the opportunity to serve during such uncertain, ever-changing times.

Life as we knew it has changed completely and we’re all trying our best to adapt to this new reality. It’s easy to be consumed by a sense of loss, grieving for the way life used to be. These times are especially tumultuous and confusing for school-aged children. Their school environments have changed drastically. For many, virtual meetings have replaced face-to-face interactions, leading to a growing sense of isolation. This is one of the reasons why the support offered by the Alaska Afterschool Network’s programs is needed now more than ever.

Because many working parents don’t have the resources to homeschool, afterschool programs offer critical support for children and families during the COVID-19 pandemic.  In these ever-changing times, being a member of an afterschool program can be a source of comfort and stability for young children. Children are able to connect with staff and peers face-to-face in safe, socially distant, and sanitized environments. They are taught the importance of keeping one another safe through wearing masks, washing their hands, and staying six feet apart.

I’ve been serving with Camp Fire Alaska with a group of four members from my team. The work we’ve done has been diverse. We’ve created and packed activity kits for rural communities, assisted with activities and sanitation at Camp Si-La-Meo, handed out food at Loussac Place, and offered support to children at three Anchorage elementary schools.

One AmeriCorps member, Caroline Paz, said about her experience with Camp Fire: “It’s really fulfilling to think that the activity kits we’re packing are being shipped out to children in rural Alaska who otherwise wouldn’t have gotten to have a traditional camp experience.”

While the behind the scenes work we’ve been doing has had a large impact, for me working directly with the children has been the most rewarding part of this experience. Their enthusiasm, creativity, and lighthearted spirits offer a much needed feeling of hope during these uncertain times. I’m endlessly inspired by their adaptability and fortitude.

The rest of our team, serving at the YMCA and Trailside Discovery, have been providing meaningful support as well. Another AmeriCorps member, Vanessa Aguilera, said about her experience at Trailside Discovery: “It’s important for children to have a safe space to be while parents work. At Trailside Discovery, children have opportunities to develop new skills and gain an appreciation for the outdoors.” AmeriCorps members have led hikes, bike rides, photography expeditions, and shelter building activities for the children at camp.

Members serving at the YMCA have been assisting with Zoom calls, conducting COVID mitigation, leading activities, and making meaningful connections with the children. Allison Pereira said of her experience: “It’s heartwarming to know that we’re making an impact on kids through engaging them in conversation and quality time. They always ask us if we’re going to be at the Y again tomorrow!” 

Afterschool programs are making a profound impact on so many young people. My teammates and I are grateful to have been able to help out these incredible organizations. Though our time with the Alaska Afterschool Network is coming to an end, it fills our hearts to know that the great work they’re doing will continue.

-Luna Ellington